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Autoimmune Hepatitis: Care Instructions

Your Care Instructions

Autoimmune hepatitis is a long-term disease that makes the body's defences (immune system) attack the liver. This causes liver inflammation and damage. Sometimes chemicals, certain medicines, or a virus can cause cells in your body to attack your liver. Some people appear to be more likely to get this disease. And women get it more often than men.

It can cause tiredness, belly discomfort, and itchy skin. You may also have diarrhea and fluid buildup in your belly (ascites). Your skin and eyes may look yellow. This is called jaundice. And you may not want to eat, so you may lose weight. But there are medicines you can take to keep your liver damage from getting worse.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse call line if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you have any problems with your medicine. You will get more details on the specific medicines your doctor prescribes.

Lower your activity to match your energy.

Avoid alcohol for as long as your doctor tells you to. Tell your doctor if you need help to quit. Counselling, support groups, and sometimes medicines can help you stay sober.

Make sure your doctor knows all the medicines you take. Some medicines, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), can make liver problems worse. Do not take any new medicines, and do not stop taking prescribed medicines, unless your doctor says it is okay.

Follow your doctor's instructions about your diet. You may need a low-salt diet. Salt is in many prepared foods, such as bacon, canned foods, snack foods, sauces, and soups. Look for reduced-salt products.

If you have itchy skin, keep cool and stay out of the sun. It may help to wear cotton clothing. Talk to your doctor about using over-the-counter medicines, such as Benadryl or Chlor-Tripolon, to control the itching. Read and follow all instructions on the label.

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.